Online fraud has become a pervasive issue nationwide, with many cases involving the misuse of SIM cards.
Fraudsters often employ new SIM cards for each fraudulent activity, prompting the government to devise measures to restrict the number of SIM cards issued to individuals.
Presently, up to nine SIM cards can be obtained using one ID, but the government intends to reduce this number to four, aiming to mitigate online fraud.
Government Plans to Allow Only Four SIM Cards per ID
According to media reports, Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnav is contemplating the implementation of a four-SIM card limit per ID.
Guidelines pertaining to this plan have been approved by the government and are expected to be made public soon.
Furthermore, the government is exploring the possibility of enabling online verification processes for SIM cards to bolster anti-fraud efforts.
Service to Monitor SIM Card Issuance and Combat Fraud
To facilitate monitoring and prevention of fraudulent SIM card activities, the government has launched a new service on the Saathi portal.
This service allows individuals to verify the number of SIM cards issued under their ID and identify any potentially fraudulent connections.
If suspicious activity is detected, users can block the respective number. This service aims to protect people from falling victim to online fraud.
Government Initiatives to Combat Unwanted Calls and Protect Consumers
In response to the annoyance caused by unsolicited calls promoting unwanted loans, home loans, credit cards, and other offers, the government has introduced several regulations.
Additionally, efforts are being made to safeguard individuals from unnecessary calls, with stringent rules being implemented in this regard.
